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Poem - Don't Mourn For Me | |||||||
| We've talked in the past few weeks about possible scenarios where we may have to consider putting a beloved horse down due to a serious incident or a chronic condition, and we've looked at the various ways of doing it, but how do you let go? There are many things you can do to help the grieving process. While you can't eliminate the grieving process altogether, you can get through it, especially if you are prepared ahead of time. Above all, treasure your memories! During your horse's life in your care, take lots of pictures These can be turned into a special tribute album when the time comes. Have video camera footage shot of your horse as well - replay these when you are really missing him the most. Write journal-like stories about your fun times together. Note the good times and the bad, the triumphs and the trials. All of these experiences made up your time with this special animal and all have a place in your memories. One day, you will be able to look back at these stories with a tear and maybe a lump in your throat - and a warm feeling that comes from having known a special friend. Write up an obituary and send it to your local saddle club's newsletter editor. Other area equestrians may have also known your horse, and can share your grief with you. Especially when the grieving is the most painful, share your feelings with other friends who feel the same way about their animals. The last thing you need in your grief is people who don't understand the bond between a human and an animal, but people who understand and support you can be very helpful during this time of sorrow. Turn to people you know via email. I belong to several great email groups and the support that pours out from these people when I have needed it was wonderful. They are quick to share kind words, advice, nice poems and stories when you really need a lift. Email is usually a quick way of reaching people when you most need human interaction - kind of ironic when many people feel that email is too impersonal! Read poems and stories like the Rainbow Bridge and the verses from Zaphod that we printed last week and this week. I have one more to print next week as well, sometimes by reading the words of others we can better understand our own emotions. Experience your emotions! Grief is a part of the healing process; allow yourself to cry. And lastly, move on. Leave a space in your heart for that horse, a niche where you can treasure those memories and good times. And then find another horse, or another pet, to channel your energies into. By moving forward, you complete the grieving process and come out the other side a more enriched person for having had the experience. Remember, "Don't cry because it is over, smile because it happened." |
I'll lend you for a little while
My grandest foal, He said. For you to love while he's alive And mourn for when he's dead. It may be one or twenty years, Or days or months, you see. But will you, till I take him back, Take care of him for me? He'll bring his charms to gladden you, And should his stay be brief You'll have treasured memories As solace for your grief. I cannot promise he will stay, Since all from earth return. But there are lessons taught on earth I want this foal to learn. I've looked the wide world over In my search for teachers true. And from the throngs that crowd life's lanes With trust, I have selected you. Now will you give him your total love? Nor think the labor vain, Nor hate me when I come To take him back again? I know you'll give him tenderness And love will bloom each day. And for the happiness you've known Forever grateful stay. But should I come and call for him Much sooner than you'd planned You'll brave the bitter grief that comes And someday you'll understand ~ from Zaphod
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Don't mourn for me Dear owner, kind and true. I know that you will miss me As I will also think of you. We shared so many secrets; those you whispered in my ear. I've kept those secrets for you lest any one would hear. And in return you've kept me from being turned out in the cold. You've fed, watered, & cared for me while we both grew old. But God had called & needs me; He says that it is time I claim that sweet reward in a kinder, greener clime. He promises sweeter clover, clear water, rich and pure I'll never have to suffer from wounds that humans cannot cure. I'll romp and play all day with others he has called hither. I'll have so many new friends that will scratch upon my wither. I'll be watching out for you when comes your judgment day and together towards the pearly gates we again will ride away! author unknown
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If you have tips or questions you'd like to share with other local equestrians, please mail them to kristi@hiway16.com
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